The St. Nicholas Church in the village of Rakitnoye was built in the first half of the 19th century. For over 20 years, Archimandrite Seraphim (Tyapochkin), known in Orthodox circles, served here. The church is recognized as a monument of architecture.

The Nikolsky Church in the Rakitnaya sloboda of the Graivoron district of the Kursk province was constructed in 1832 with funds from Prince Boris Nikolayevich Yusupov.

In the 1930s, there were repeated attempts to close the Nikolsky Church, and in 1934, this was achieved. During the Great Patriotic War, the church was temporarily reopened.

On June 4, 1961, the Rakitnensky district executive committee decided to close the church again and transfer the building to the cultural and educational department. However, thanks to the efforts and influence of Archpriest Dmitry Tyapochkin (later Archimandrite Seraphim), who served in the church for 21 years and was buried by the church wall, this decision was not implemented.

During Father Seraphim's ministry, Rakitnoye became a well-known spiritual center, attracting people from all over the country. Father Seraphim passed away on April 19, 1982, on the first day of Easter week. Pilgrims from various parts of Russia and abroad visit his grave, located on the church grounds.

In 1990-1991, the church underwent repairs and restoration, and a single-tier bell tower was built.

In 2005, a spiritual and educational center named after Archimandrite Seraphim opened in the building next to the church.

On April 5, 2005, Archbishop John of Belgorod and Stary Oskol consecrated a children's home of mercy built next to the church.

On July 31 and August 1, 2007, celebrations were held to mark the 175th anniversary of the St. Nicholas Church and the 25th anniversary of Archimandrite Seraphim's passing. On August 1, 2007, a monument to Father Seraphim was unveiled and consecrated.